Snapper LT-200 User Manual
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
18.5HP Hydro Tractors
Mfg. No. Description
2690685 ELT18538, 18.5HP (CE)
2690781 ELT18540, 18.5HP (CE)
20HP Hydro Tractors
Mfg. No. Description
2690689 ELT2044, 20HP (CE)
38” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1695146 38” Mower Deck (CE)
40” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1695433 40” Mower Deck (CE)
44” Mower Decks
Mfg. No. Description
1695147 44” Mower Deck (CE)
LT-200 Series
1734103
Revision 02
Rev. Date 02/2008
TP 100-4422-02-RG-N
1
Troubleshooting, Adjustment & Service .........28
Troubleshooting the Tractor..................................28
Troubleshooting the Mower ..................................29
Battery Charging ...................................................30
Seat Adjustment....................................................30
Brake Adjustment..................................................30
PTO Clutch Adjustment ........................................31
Fuse Replacement................................................32
Mower Adjustments ..............................................32
Gauge Wheels ..............................................32
Leveling the Mower.......................................33
Mower Belt Replacement......................................34
Specifications ....................................................35
Parts & Accessories..........................................36
Lawn Care & Mowing Information .............LC—1
NOTE: In this manual, “left” and “right” are referred to as
seen from the operating position.
Safety Rules & Information.................................2
Identification Numbers........................................7
Safety Decals .......................................................8
Safety Icons .........................................................9
Features & Controls ..........................................10
Control Functions..................................................10
Parking Brake Function.........................................12
Cruise Control Operation ......................................12
Hourmeter .............................................................12
12 Volt Power Outlet .............................................12
Operating the Tractor ........................................13
Safety Interlock System ........................................13
General Operating Safety .....................................13
Adding Fuel...........................................................13
Starting the Engine ...............................................13
Stopping the Tractor & Engine..............................14
Driving the Tractor ................................................14
Mowing..................................................................14
Mowing in Reverse ...............................................14
Attachment Operation in Reverse.........................14
Pushing the Tractor by Hand ................................14
Mower Deck Removal & Installation .....................15
Adjusting Mower Cutting Height............................16
Attaching a Trailer.................................................16
Storage .................................................................16
Regular Maintenance ........................................17
Maintenance Schedule .........................................17
Checking Tire Pressures.......................................17
Check / Clean Oil Cooler ......................................18
Safety Interlock System Check .............................18
Blade Brake Check ...............................................18
PTO Clutch Adjustment Check .............................18
Engine Maintenance .............................................18
Battery Maintenance .............................................18
Transmission Identification ...................................19
Transmission Maintenance ...................................19
Hood Removal and Installation .............................19
Lubrication ............................................................20
Lubricate Rear Axes .............................................21
Servicing the Mower Blades .................................22
Check & Fill Engine Oil .........................................23
Oil Drain Valve Operation .....................................24
Change Engine Oil................................................24
Change Engine Oil & Filter ...................................24
Air Filter & Pre-Cleaner Service
(Briggs & Stratton Two Cylinder Models)..............25
Air Filter & Pre-Cleaner Service
(Briggs & Stratton Single Cylinder Models)...........26
Replace Spark Plug ..............................................27
Table of Contents
2
Safety Rules & Information
TP 600-2459-08-UV-SMA
Operating Safety
Congratulations on purchasing a superior-quality piece of lawn and
garden equipment. Our products are designed and manufactured to
meet or exceed all industry standards for safety.
Power equipment is only as safe as the operator. If it is misused, or
not properly maintained, it can be dangerous! Remember, you are
responsible for your safety and that of those around you.
Use common sense, and think through what you are doing. If you
are not sure that the task you are about to perform can be safely
done with the equipment you have chosen, ask a
professional: contact your local authorized dealer.
Read the Manual
The operator’s manual contains important safety information you need to be aware of
BEFORE you operate your unit as well as DURING operation.
Safe operating techniques, an explanation of the product’s features and
controls, and maintenance information is included to help you get the
most out of your equipment investment.
Be sure to completely read the Safety Rules and Information found on
the following pages. Also completely read the Operation section.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur with children. Do not allow
them anywhere near the area of operation. Children are
often attracted to the unit and mowing activity. Never
assume that children will remain where you last saw them.
If there is a risk that children may enter the area where you
are mowing, have another responsible adult watch them.
DO NOT GIVE CHILDREN RIDES ON THIS UNIT! This
encourages them to come near the unit in the future while it
is running, and they could be seriously hurt. They may then
approach the unit for a ride when you are not expecting it,
and you may run over them.
Reverse
Do not mow in reverse unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and
while traveling in reverse
even with the mower
blades disengaged.
3
Safety Rules and Information
Slope Operation
You could be seriously injured or even killed if you use this unit on too
steep an incline. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep or where
you don’t have adequate traction can cause you to lose control or roll
over.
A good rule of thumb is to not operate on any slope you cannot back up
(in 2-wheel drive mode). You should not operate on inclines with a
slope greater than a 3.5 foot rise over a 20 foot length. Always drive up
and down slopes: never cross the face.
Also note that the surface you are driving on can greatly impact stability
and control. Wet grass or icy pavement can seriously affect your ability
to control the unit.
If you feel unsure about operating the unit on an incline, don’t do it. It’s
not worth the risk.
Moving Parts
This equipment has many moving parts that can injure you or someone else.
However, if you are seated in the seat properly, and follow all the rules in this
book, the unit is safe to operate.
The mower deck has spinning mower blades that can amputate hands and feet.
Do not allow anyone near the equipment while it is running!
To help you, the operator, use this equipment safely, it is equipped with an
operator-present safety system. Do NOT attempt to alter or bypass the system.
See your dealer immediately if the system does not pass all the safety interlock
system tests found in this manual.
Thrown Objects
This unit has spinning mower blades. These blades can pick up and throw
debris that could seriously injure a bystander. Be sure to clean up the area to
be mowed BEFORE you start mowing.
Do not operate this unit without the entire grass catcher or discharge guard
(deflector) in place.
Also, do not allow anyone in the area while the unit is running! If someone
does enter the area, shut the unit off immediately until they leave.
Fuel and Maintenance
Gasoline is extremely flammable. Its vapors are also extremely flammable
and can travel to distant ignition sources. Gasoline must only be used as a
fuel, not as a solvent or cleaner. It should never be stored any place where
its vapors can build up or travel to an ignition source like a pilot light. Fuel
belongs in an approved, plastic, sealed gas can, or in the tractor fuel tank
with the cap securely closed. Spilled fuel needs to be cleaned up
immediately.
Proper maintenance is critical to the safety and performance of your unit.
Be sure to perform the maintenance procedures listed in this manual,
especially periodically testing the safety system.
4
Safety Rules & Information
GENERAL OPERATION
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under
the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at
all times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with
the instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations
can restrict operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire,
etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the
blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before
mowing. Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down and behind before and while
travelling in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the
operator. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel
surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always
disengage the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine,
and remove keys before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off
engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete
stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass
catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
13. Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
15 Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit
into a trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of power
equipment-related injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the equipment safely
enough to protect themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for
wheel weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers.
Never operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the blades
and blade hardware are present, intact, and secure.
Replace worn or damaged parts.
24. Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing
an attachment, making adjustments (unless the
adjustment can be made from the operator’s
position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left
unattended, lower the cutting means unless a positive
mechanical lock is used.
26. Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason,
engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengage
the PTO, stop the engine, and remove the key.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass,
leaves, & excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry
leaves, grass, or combustible materials.
28. It is a violation of California Public Resource Code
Section 4442 to use or operate the engine on or near
any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered
land unless the exhaust system is equipped with a
spark arrester meeting any applicable local or state
laws. Other states or federal areas may have similar
laws.
Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control
of unit, severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment.
This mowing deck is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
The triangle in text signifies important cautions or warnings which must be followed.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make
sure it is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If
the unit is facing backwards, wind lift could damage
the unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling
practices when refueling the unit after transportation
or storage.
3. Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an
ignition source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.)
and cause an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to
humans and animals.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the unit for both
short and long term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
proper start-up procedures when returning the unit to
service.
6. Never store the unit or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame or pilot light, such as in a
water heater. Allow unit to cool before storing.
5
Safety Rules and Information
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
unit and the mowing activity. Never assume that children
will remain where you last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
2. Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
3. Before and during reverse operation, look behind and
down for small children.
4. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) off. They
may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with
safe unit operation. Children who have been given
rides in the past may suddenly appear in the mowing
area for another ride and be run over or backed over
by the machine.
5. Never allow children to operate the unit.
6. Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure
vision.
EMISSIONS
1. Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known, in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm.
2. Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period and
Air Index information on the engine emissions label.
IGNITION SYSTEM
1. This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death.
Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you
cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
operate on it.
Control of a walk-behind or ride-on machine sliding on a
slope will not be regained by the application of the brake.
The main reasons for loss of control are: insufficient tire
grip on the ground, speed too fast, inadequate braking, the
type of machine is unsuitable for its task, lack of awareness
of the ground conditions, incorrect hitching and load
distribution.
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to
stop or change speeds while on the slope.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may loose traction.
5. Always keep unit in gear especially when traveling
down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast
downhill.
6. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.
7. Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do
not make sudden changes in speed or direction,
which could cause the machine to rollover.
8. Use extra care while operating machines with grass
catchers or other attachments; they can affect the
stability of the unit. Do not use on steep slopes.
9. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your
foot on the ground (ride-on units).
10. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. The mower could suddenly turn over
if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an
edge caves in.
11. Do not use grass catchers on steep slopes.
12. Do not mow slopes you cannot back up them.
13. See your authorized dealer/retailer for
recommendations of wheel weights or
counterweights to improve stability.
14. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
15. Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes
even through the brakes are functioning properly.
16. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then,
turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
TOWED EQUIPMENT (RIDE-ON UNITS)
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed
for towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at
the hitch point.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for
weight limit for towed equipment and towing on
slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed
equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent
(10°) which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet (106 cm) vertically in
20 feet (607 cm) horizontally.
When operating on slopes use additional wheel
weights or counterweights. See your dealer/retailer
to determine which weights are available and
appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope.
In addition to front weights, use extra caution when
operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass
catchers.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the
face, use caution when changing directions and DO
NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
6
Safety Rules & Information
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Safe Handling of Gasoline
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
2. Use only approved gasoline containers.
3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. Never fuel the machine indoors.
5. Never store the machine or fuel container where
there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as
near a water heater or other appliance.
6. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck bed
with a plastic bed liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with
a portable container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
8. Keep nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
9. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
10. Never over-fill the fuel tank. Replace gas cap and
tighten securely.
11. Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
12. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but
move the machine away from the area of spillage and
avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
13. Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps
securely.
Service & Maintenance
1. Never run the unit in an enclosed area where carbon
monoxide fumes may collect.
2. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment
bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
3. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly and make necessary repairs if
they are not functioning properly.
4. Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris buildup. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. and remove any fuelsoaked debris. Allow machine to cool before storage.
5. If you strike an object, stop and inspect the machine.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
6. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running.
7. Check grass catcher components and the discharge
guard frequently and replace with manufacturer’s
recommended parts, when necessary.
8. Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blade or wear
gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
9. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service
as required.
10. Maintain or replace safety and instructions labels, as
necessary.
11. Do not remove the fuel filter when the engine is hot
as spilled gasoline may ignite. Do not spread fuel line
clamps further than necessary. Ensure clamps grip
hoses firmly over the filter after installation.
12. Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline
additives, or white gas because engine/fuel system
damage could result.
13. If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained
outdoors.
14. Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
15. Use only factory authorized replacement parts when
making repairs.
16. Always comply with factory specifications on all
settings and adjustments.
17. Only authorized service locations should be utilized
for major service and repair requirements.
18. Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit
unless you have been properly trained. Improper
service procedures can result in hazardous operation,
equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer’s
warranty.
19. On multiple blade mowers, take care as rotating one
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
20. Do not change engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
21. Disengage drive attachments, stop the engine,
remove the key, and disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) before: clearing attachment blockages and
chutes, performing service work, striking an object, or
if the unit vibrates abnormally. After striking an
object, inspect the machine for damage and make
repairs before restarting and operating the
equipment.
22. Never place hands near the moving parts, such as a
hydro pump cooling fan, when the tractor is running.
(Hydro pump cooling fans are typically located on top
of the transaxle).
23. Units with hydraulic pumps, hoses, or motors:
WARNING: Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure
may have sufficient force to penetrate skin and cause
serious injury. If foreign fluid is injected into the skin it
must be surgically removed within a few hours by a
doctor familiar with this form of injury or gangrene
may result. Keep body and hands away from pin
holes or nozzles that eject hydraulic fluid under high
pressure. Use paper or cardboard, and not hands, to
search for leaks. Make sure all hydraulic fluid
connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and
lines are in good condition before applying pressure
to the system. If leaks occur, have the unit serviced
immediately by your authorized dealer.
24. WARNING: Stored energy device. Improper release
of springs can result in serious personal injury.
Springs should be removed by an authorized
technician.
25. Models equipped with an engine radiator: WARNING:
Stored energy device. To prevent serious bodily
injury from hot coolant or steam blow-out, never
attempt to remove the radiator cap while the engine is
running. Stop the engine and wait until it is cool.
Even then, use extreme care when removing the cap.
7
Identification Numbers
Tractor ID Tag
Mower ID Tag
When contacting your authorized dealer for
replacement parts, service, or information you MUST
have these numbers.
Record your model name/number, manufacturer’s
identification numbers, and engine serial numbers in the
space provided for easy access. These numbers can be
found in the locations shown.
NOTE: For location of engine identification numbers,
refer to the engine owner’s manual.
CE Models: Place the extra copy of the identification tag
in the manual
SAMPLE
ENGINE REFERENCE DATA
Model Description Name/Number
Unit MFG Number
PRODUCT REFERENCE DATA
Unit SERIAL Number
Dealer Name
Date Purchased
Engine Make
Engine Type/Spec
Engine Model
Engine Code/Serial Number
Mower Deck MFG Number
Mower Deck SERIAL
Number
CE Identification Tag Markings
A. Manufacturer’s Identification Number
B. Manufacturer’s Serial Number
C. Power Rating in Kilowatts
D. Maximum Engine Speed in Rotations per Minute
E. Manufacturer’s Address
F. Year of Manufacture
G. CE Compliance Logo
H. Mass of Unit in Kilograms
I. Sound Power in Decibels ***
J. Sound Pressure at Operator’s Position in Decibels **
K. Vibration at the Steering Wheel *
Identification Numbers
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
Part No. xxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Serial No. xxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
xxx
kg: xxx
kW: x.xx
xxxx max
20xx
dB
8
Safety Decals
Warning: Read Operator’s
Manual.
Read and understand the
Operator’s Manual before using
this machine.
Danger: Thrown Objects.
This machine is capable of throwing
objects and debris. Keep
bystanders away.
Warning: Remove Key Before
Servicing.
Remove the key and consult
technical literature before
performing repairs or maintenance.
Danger: Machine Rollover.
Do not use this machine on slopes
greater than 10°.
Danger: Dismemberment.
This machine can amputate limbs.
Keep bystanders and children away
when engine is running.
Danger: Dismemberment.
This mower deck can amputate
limbs. Keep hands and feet away
from blades.
Safety Decals
This unit has been designed and manufactured to
provide you with the safety and reliability you would
expect from an industry leader in outdoor power
equipment manufacturing.
Although reading this manual and the safety instructions
it contains will provide you with the necessary basic
knowledge to operate this equipment safely and
effectively, we have placed several safety labels on the
unit to remind you of this important information while you
are operating your unit.
All DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and instructional
messages on your rider and mower should be carefully
read and obeyed. Personal bodily injury can result when
these instructions are not followed. The information is for
your safety and it is important! The safety decals below
are on your rider and mower.
If any of these decals are lost or damaged, replace them
at once. See your local dealer for replacements.
These labels are easily applied and will act as a constant
visual reminder to you, and others who may use the
equipment, to follow the safety instructions necessary for
safe, effective operation.
Safety IconsSafety Icons
9
CE Safety Icons
Transmission
Release
Part No. 1730202
Attachment Lift
Part No. 1730264
Fuel Level
Part No. 1730172
Ignition Switch
Positions
Part No. 1722806
Decals Locations
Pinch Point
When installing or removing the mower deck, do not
place hands between mower lift linkage and frame rail.
1732070
CAUTION
Caution, Pinch Point
Part No. 1732070
(38”, 40” & 44” Mowers Only)
Caution, Pinch Point
Part No. 1732070
(38”, 40” & 44” Mowers Only)
Pinch Point
When installing or removing the mower deck, do not
place hands between mower lift linkage and frame rail.
1732070
CAUTION
Pinch Point
When installing or removing the mower deck, do not
place hands between mower lift linkage and frame rail.
1732070
CAUTION
Pinch Point
When installing or removing the mower deck, do not
place hands between mower lift linkage and frame rail.
1732070
CAUTION
Operating Instructions,
CE Models, Part No. 1734027
1730172
173xxxx
1730264
10
Features & Controls
Throttle Control
The throttle controls engine speed. Move the throttle
forward to increase engine speed and back to decrease
engine speed. Always operate at FULL throttle.
Choke
Close the choke for cold starting. Open the choke once
the engine starts. A warm engine may not require
choking. Move the lever forward to close the choke.
Headlights
The light switch turns the tractor headlights on and off.
Hour Meter (Select Models)
The hour meter measures the number of hours the key
has been in the RUN position.
Control Functions
The information below briefly describes the function of individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing
require the combined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. To learn what combination and sequence
of controls to use for various tasks see the OPERATION section.
Figure 1. Controls
12V
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